Category:
Home-grown
Ornamental grass in purple tones, highly decorative and with a striking presence, ideal for borders and pots in full sun with moderate watering.
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Our experts say
The Pennisetum rubrum (common botanical name Pennisetum advena ‘Rubrum’) is an ornamental grass highly valued for its purple colour and strong presence in the garden. It forms arching clumps of fine, burgundy-toned leaves that add contrast and depth to beds, borders and pots. In season it produces soft, feather-like plumes that float above the foliage and add texture and movement, especially visible in side light.
It is a very effective plant for adding structure and colour with relatively low maintenance. It works especially well in contemporary and Mediterranean compositions, pairing with deep greens, silvers and pale blooms. With good light and controlled watering it maintains a more intense colour and a compact habit.
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Benefits
Adds burgundy/purple colour, contrast and presence all year round in mild climates.
Ornamental spikes that add texture and movement.
Ideal for beds, borders and pots with a contemporary feel.
Combines very well with silver plants, deep greens and pale blooms.
Easy to maintain with a pleasing visual result.
Special care
Needs full sun to maintain its purple colour; in partial shade it tends to turn green.
Well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging, especially in cooler periods.
Moderate watering: regular in summer, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; in winter, much less.
In a pot, use a spacious container and monitor watering during heatwaves so it does not dry out excessively.
In late winter, trim back the plant to renew it (if the climate is mild, it is enough to tidy up and trim; if it has deteriorated, cut lower to encourage regrowth).
Appreciates a light feed in spring to stimulate growth and colour.
Sensitive to intense cold: protect it or treat it as a seasonal plant if there is severe frost.
